Town midfielder Jim Magilton has decided to hang up his international boots. The 33-year-old has played for his country for 11 years, but has decided to call it a day, partly due to his son Adam's recent health problems.
The former Southampton man was due to be involved in Northern Ireland's squad for their opening Euro 2004 match with Spain in October but feels that in the current circumstances he wants to leave the international stage: "Myself and my family have given the matter a lot of thought.
"Given the circumstances we find ourselves in, the only conclusion I can come to is that the time has come for me to announce my retirement from international football.
"It is a decision I never wanted to make because playing for Northern Ireland has brought me a lot of pleasure and enjoyment over the years.
"I have always given it my full commitment but now though I feel that I can't give it my full concentration.
"Without that I think it is right that I should let Sammy McIlroy bring in a younger man to take on my role."
McIlroy praised the Town man: "Jim has been a great servant for me and my assistant Jim Harvey and will be greatly missed.
"I have spoken to him about his decision to quit and, although it is very unfortunate, I fully understand and respect his reasons.
"He was a great player for me with his excellent passing ability in the midfield area.
"But he was also an ideal man to have around the squad off the pitch. He had a great personality and always had a smile on his face.
"I have told him he is welcome back to join us or train with us any time if wishes to do so."
Magilton gained 52 caps for Northern Ireland, seven as captain, and scored five goals.